12/01/2025

More Than Success: Choosing Health, Wholeness, and Faith

Abel Menbrano’s story of finding life on the other side of achievement. Summary In this episode of the Thrive360 Podcast, Mitch McKinney sits down with filmmaker Abel Membreno to explore his journey of rediscovering faith and purpose after years of resentment toward the church and chasing achievement. Raised in a ministry-driven Latino home, Abel walked away from church as a young adult, only to find himself unfulfilled and unhealthy in the life he thought he wanted. A sudden health crisis became the turning point that forced him to slow down, reevaluate his priorities, and confront the emotional and spiritual patterns he had been avoiding. Through intentional growth—and a transformative experience at a Thrive360 retreat—Abel learned to release control, prioritize health, and align his work with purpose. His story offers a powerful reminder that God often uses disruption to redirect us, and that true success comes from living surrendered, not striving. Takeaways -Abel grew up immersed in ministry but carried deep resentment toward the church. -Walking away from faith didn’t bring fulfillment—it magnified emptiness. -A sudden health crisis became the catalyst for reevaluating his life. -Abel discovered he wasn’t as healthy—emotionally or spiritually—as he believed. -A Thrive360 retreat revealed blind spots and opened the door to renewal. -Prioritizing health led Abel to realign his work with God’s purpose. -Learning to surrender opened unexpected opportunities and clarity. -God often uses divine disruptions to lead us into deeper purpose. Chapters 00:00 – Introduction 01:30 – Abel’s upbringing in a ministry-centered home 03:20 – Resentment and walking away from church 04:50 – Chasing achievement and unhealthy patterns 07:00 – The health crisis that changed everything 10:20 – A shift toward purpose, creativity, and calling 13:45 – COVID, burnout, and confronting deeper issues 15:50 – The Thrive360 retreat and the revelation of true health 18:10 – Learning to say no and live from purpose 21:00 – Trusting God without a five-year plan 👍 LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE for content that will help you lead healthy and finish well. How healthy are you—heart, mind, soul and strength? Take the Health Assessment Today ➡️ https://00odcultez7.typeform.com/to/VNbKbRCD?typeform-source=thrivethreesixty.com Check out our Website to learn more about Thrive360: https://thrivethreesixty.com/ Follow us: https://www.instagram.com/thrivethreesixty/

22 min

11/03/2025

The Hidden Drift: How Leaders Lose Ground Long Before the Fall

Why burnout, pride, and moral compromise don’t happen overnight—and how to course-correct before the crash. In this episode of the Thrive360 Podcast, host Mitchell McKinney sits down once again with Mark Montemayor for a deeply honest conversation about burnout, moral failure, and redemption in leadership. Together, they confront the painful truth that not all leadership breakdowns are caused by exhaustion—some stem from choices, compromises, and blind spots that slowly erode character and credibility. Drawing from Scripture, real-life experiences, and decades of ministry, Mitch and Monte unpack what it means to be disqualified—not just from moral scandal, but from unchecked pride, financial compromise, and emotional unhealth. They explore why self-examination and accountability are non-negotiable for leaders who want to finish well. Whether you’re leading a church, a team, or your own family, this conversation is both a warning and an invitation: to step into the light, seek help, and trust God with your healing and restoration. Key Takeaways: -Burnout and moral failure are warning lights—not the end of your story. -Disqualification isn’t just about sexual immorality; it can stem from pride, greed, or loss of self-control. -Scripture clearly outlines the qualifications—and heart posture—of leaders. -Self-examination and confession are vital to prevent moral drift. -It’s always better to confess than to be caught. -Freedom begins with transparency and trusted accountability. -Leaders must learn to trust God with their weakness and the consequences of honesty. -You don’t drift into health—you have to take a step toward it. Chapters: 00:00 — Welcome & Introduction with Guest Mark Montemayor 00:47 — Understanding Moral Failure Beyond Sexual Sin 03:49 — What Truly Disqualifies a Leader 07:17 — The Role of Self-Examination and Accountability 09:59 — Finding Freedom Through Confession and Community Resources: -Learn more at www.thrivethreesixty.com -Feeling burned out? Take the free health assessment here: https://thrivethreesixty.com/health-check/ 👍 LIKE, FOLLOW, and SUBSCRIBE for content that will help you lead healthy and finish well. Follow us: https://www.instagram.com/thrivethreesixty/

13 min

10/06/2025

The Drift Toward Burnout: How Leaders Lose Health One Choice at a Time—and How to Course Correct

In this powerful episode of the Thrive360 Podcast, Mitch McKinney sits down with Monte to unpack the often-overlooked danger of drift—the subtle compromises and unchecked habits that slowly lead leaders toward burnout. Drawing from deeply personal experiences, Mitch and Monte reveal how small neglects—like sacrificing sleep, ignoring physical warning signs, or pushing past healthy boundaries—compounded into crisis. They talk candidly about the shock of hitting a wall, the humbling recovery process, and the lasting impact burnout can have not only on leaders but also on their families. But this isn’t just a warning—it’s a roadmap. You’ll discover how intentional rest, self-awareness, and faith can reset the course. Whether you’re “redlining” right now or walking alongside someone who is, this episode offers wisdom, practical steps, and hope for a healthier future. Key Takeaways: -Burnout is a slow drift, not a sudden event. -Success can mask warning signs and delay necessary changes. -Sleep, rest, and nutrition are spiritual and physical priorities, not luxuries. -Ignoring health leads to long-term damage that impacts families too. -Faith reshapes how we see rest and responsibility. -Taking action early saves years of recovery later. -Supporting others through honest conversations may be the most loving thing you can do. Chapters: 00:00:00 Introduction to Leader Health 00:01:16 Personal Stories of Burnout 00:03:42 The Role of Faith 00:07:31 Importance of Rest and Recovery 00:09:49 Advice for Leaders Facing Burnout 00:11:43 Helping Others Recognize Burnout 00:12:51 Long-term Effects of Burnout Resources: -Learn more at www.thrivethreesixty.com -Feeling burned out? Take the free health assessment here: https://thrivethreesixty.com/health-check/ 👍 LIKE, FOLLOW, and SUBSCRIBE for content that will help you lead healthy and finish well. Follow us: https://www.instagram.com/thrivethreesixty/

16 min

09/08/2025

Breaking the Cycle: Leadership, Grief, and Grace with Fredy Romero

Discover how healing begins when we shift from performance to presence. In this deeply personal episode of the THRIVE360 Podcast, host Mitch McKinney sits down with Fredy Romero—pastor, leader, and passionate advocate for healing in the Latino church community. Fredy shares about his upbringing as the son of immigrant parents, the pressures he faced in ministry, and how two personal losses in one year forced him to confront the quiet toll leadership had taken on his soul. Through the THRIVE360 retreat experience, Fredy found something unexpected: space to grieve, freedom from performance-driven faith, and a new understanding of grace. Together, he and Mitch dive into the unspoken weight Latino leaders carry, the generational narratives that shape their leadership, and what it takes to rewrite those stories. If you’ve ever felt the pressure to push through pain or lead on empty—this episode is for you. KEY TAKEAWAYS: Leadership can carry a hidden emotional toll—especially when grief goes unprocessed. Latino cultural values around sacrifice, performance, and duty often create spiritual pressure. The Thrive360 retreat offered Fredy a rare space to be fully human, not just a pastor. Grief revealed unhealthy habits and coping mechanisms that had gone unchecked. Healing doesn’t happen overnight—it requires time, grace, and intentional unlearning. Many pastors silently wrestle with burnout, shame, and isolation. Sharing tools, stories, and safe spaces can bridge the gap for under-resourced leaders. Fredy and THRIVE360 are committed to helping Latino leaders find freedom from works-based faith and reconnect with their identity as beloved children of God. CHAPTERS: 00:00 – Welcome & Meet Fredy Romero 03:25 – A Personal Invitation to Retreat 05:34 – Grief, Miscarriage & Ministry Pressure 10:07 – From Performance to Presence 12:34 – Latino Culture & the Weight of Expectations 16:15 – Sharing Hope & Rewriting the Narrative RESOURCES: -Learn more at www.thrivethreesixty.com -Feeling burned out? Take the free health assessment here: https://thrivethreesixty.com/health-check/ 👍 LIKE, FOLLOW, and SUBSCRIBE for content that will help you lead healthy and finish well. FOLLOW US: https://www.instagram.com/thrivethreesixty/ https://www.facebook.com/thrivethreesixty/

20 min

08/04/2025

Leading Without Losing: Navigating Marriage & Ministry Together

How to stay united, healthy, and hopeful when leadership pulls you from every angle In this candid and hope-filled episode of the Thrive360 Podcast, Mitch McKinney is joined by longtime friend and ministry partner Mark Montemayor to talk about the real-life experiences of couples serving in ministry. Together, they unpack the emotional highs, personal hurts, and ongoing challenges that come with leading while loving your spouse—and why staying proactive is essential to preventing burnout and building a healthy marriage that lasts. This conversation offers practical wisdom and vulnerability around: -Misplaced priorities and the myth that “it’s just a season” -The silent drift that can occur in busy ministry marriages -Setting boundaries that protect your home life and your heart -The raw story behind Mitch’s burnout and the moment everything changed -Why your marriage must outlast your ministry—and how to make sure it does Whether you’re in the middle of ministry right now or walking with those who are, this episode is packed with honest encouragement, grace, and guidance to help you not just survive—but thrive—together. Key Takeaways: -Your marriage is your first ministry—and it needs proactive investment. -You won’t drift into a better place; health requires intention and action. -Honest communication creates space for healing and growth. -Boundaries are not a lack of faith—they’re an act of faithfulness. -Seasons won’t change unless you change them. Chapters: 00:00 – Welcome & Why Being Proactive Matters 01:30 – Marriage in Ministry: The Highs and the Hurts 05:15 – Burnout & the Breaking Point 06:45 – Challenges We Face: Expectations, Isolation, and Silent Drift 08:00 – When Ministry Overshadows Marriage 09:25 – Marriage is Our First Ministry 11:45 – Proactive Steps for Staying Healthy in Ministry 13:40 – The Season That Won’t Change Without Action 15:10 – You’re Not Alone: Final Encouragement Resources: -Learn more at www.thrivethreesixty.com -Feeling burned out? Take the free health assessment here: https://thrivethreesixty.com/health-check/ 👍 LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE for content that will help you lead healthy and finish well. Follow us: https://www.instagram.com/thrivethreesixty/

16 min

07/07/2025

More Than a Number: Discovering Self and God Through the Enneagram

Summary In this episode of the Thrive360 Podcast, host Mitch McKinney is joined once again by Enneagram guru and Thrive360 team member Covyn Montemayor for an insightful conversation on the role of personality awareness in leadership and life. Covyn shares how the Enneagram has helped shape her understanding of herself, her relationships, and her walk with God. Together, they explore the importance of identifying blind spots, the value of looking beyond your dominant type, and why self-discovery must happen in community. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who’s ready to use the Enneagram as a tool to move past labels and lean into growth. Takeaways The Enneagram is a powerful framework for understanding aspects of God's character as reflected in people Your primary type is important—but your lowest scoring type may hold the greatest invitation for growth. The WEPSS Enneagram test gives a full spectrum of your personality across all nine types. Growth happens in the presence of accountability—don’t navigate the Enneagram alone. Avoid using Enneagram types to stereotype others or excuse behavior; everyone has potential to grow beyond their number. Awareness of blind spots is the beginning of meaningful transformation. Resources Learn more at thrivethreesixty.com Take the WEPSS Enneagram Test Feeling burned out? Take the free health assessment here: https://thrivethreesixty.com/health-check/ Chapters 00:00 – Intro: Why the Enneagram Still Matters 02:57 – Covyn’s Journey from Curiosity to Certification 06:11 – The Enneagram and Real-Life Relationship Impact 08:55 – Awareness, Blind Spots & the Joy Type 11:47 – Don’t Do It Alone: Cautions and Community in Enneagram Work 👍 LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE for content that will help you lead healthy and finish well. Follow us: https://www.instagram.com/thrivethreesixty/

14 min

06/02/2025

Presence Over Pressure: Cultivating Peace, Rhythms & Self-Awareness in Leadership

In this powerful episode of the Thrive360 Podcast, host Mitch McKinney sits down with licensed acupuncturist and Thrive360 retreat facilitator Covyn Montemayor to unpack a topic that too often gets overlooked: the health of the leader. Drawing from her experience in clinical well-being and spiritual formation, Covyn offers a practical and compassionate look at the hidden toll leadership can take—and how to recognize the signs before burnout sets in. Together, they explore how your personal rhythms impact your leadership, the difference between peacekeeping and peacemaking, and why solitude and Sabbath are vital tools for longevity in ministry. Whether you're feeling worn thin or simply sense the need to slow down, this episode is a gentle but powerful reminder: you’re worth the care you give to others. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: Why your personal well-being is inseparable from your leadership impact How “drift” shows up in leaders—and how to catch it early The power of Sabbath and solitude to restore clarity How to create reflective space without guilt or shame Why presence matters more than perfection What it means to be a peacemaker—not just a peacekeeper First steps for when you feel alone or unseen in leadership CHAPTERS 00:00: Introduction to Thrive360 Podcast and Guest 01:45: Covyn Montemayor: Background and Role at Thrive360 03:41: The Importance of Leader Health 05:35: Common Issues in Leadership and Presence 08:57: Guidance for Leaders in Difficult Times 10:48: Impact of Retreats on Leaders' Well-being

13 min

05/05/2025

The Blind Spot Breakdown: Growing in Self-Awareness as a Leader

In this episode of the Thrive360 Podcast, Mitch McKinney and Mark Montemayor, discuss the importance of self-awareness in leadership. They explore how leaders often lack awareness of how they are perceived by others, the common blind spots that exist, and the challenges of receiving feedback. The conversation emphasizes the need for leaders to invite feedback, understand the art and science of leadership, and adapt their communication to better connect with their teams. Ultimately, self-discovery and growth in self-awareness are highlighted as essential components for effective leadership. TAKEAWAYS: -Self-awareness is crucial for effective leadership. -Everyone has blind spots that can impact their leadership. -Receiving feedback is a challenge for many leaders. -Leaders need to invite feedback and be open to it. -Understanding how others perceive you is vital. -Leadership involves both technical skills and relational skills. -Change is often easier for those who author it. -Self-discovery requires input from others. -Language matters in communicating with your team. -Leaders must adapt their approach to fit their audience. SOUND BITES: "We all lack self-awareness." "How people experience your leadership matters." "We need help to identify blind spots." CHAPTERS: 00:00 Introduction to Self-Awareness 03:14 Blind Spots in Leadership 06:05 The Challenge of Receiving Feedback 08:52 The Art and Science of Leadership 12:10 Self-Discovery and Language in Leadership Follow Thrive360: Instagram | YouTube

14 min

04/07/2025

Finding Your True Identity in Leadership and Faith

In this episode, Mitch McKinney and Mark Montemayor discuss the issue of identity drift and its impact on leaders. They explore the three main disruptors to identity: where one comes from, what one does, and who one does it with. They emphasize the importance of navigating identity drift and staying on course by anchoring to fixed points, such as Scripture. The conversation highlights the need for leaders to revisit foundational truths and remember their identity as a new creation in Christ. They also discuss the impact of past experiences on identity and offer advice for recognizing and addressing identity drift. TAKEAWAYS -Identity drift is a common issue that affects leaders and individuals alike. -The three main disruptors to identity are where one comes from, what one does, and who one does it with. -Awareness of identity drift is the first step to correction. -Navigating identity drift requires anchoring to fixed points, such as Scripture, and revisiting foundational truths. -Recognizing identity drift and taking action, such as seeking counseling or reconnecting with foundational truths, is crucial for maintaining a healthy sense of identity. CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction and Recap 01:18 The Root Issue: Identity Drift 02:14 Disruptors to Identity: Where I Came From, What I Do, Who I Do It With 03:40 Navigating Identity Drift 05:07 The Importance of Anchor Points: Scripture as Guideposts 06:35 Going Back to the Basics: Revisiting Foundational Truths 08:03 The Power of Scripture: Anchoring to the Truth of Being a New Creation 09:30 The Impact of Past Experiences on Identity 12:19 Recognizing Identity Drift and Taking Action 14:18 Preview of Next Episode: Self-Awareness and its Impact on Health and Drift Follow Thrive360: Instagram | YouTube

15 min

02/17/2025

Beyond the Drift: Discovering Your True North as a Leader

In this episode of the Thrive360 Podcast, hosts Mitch McKinney and Mark Montemayor delve into the transformative role of retreats in leadership development. They discuss the critical need for leaders to carve out time for self-reflection, rest, and personal growth to foster a culture of health and wellness within their organizations. The concept of "drift" is introduced as a subtle yet significant challenge that leaders face, pulling them away from their core values and goals. To combat this, the hosts emphasize the importance of identifying one's True North—the guiding principles and directions in your life. The discussion underscores the importance of intentionality and self-awareness in maintaining your course and the dangers that drift poses to both leadership effectiveness and personal fulfillment. The episode also touches on common disruptors of self-awareness and identity, offering insights into how leaders can recognize and overcome these challenges. TAKEAWAYS: -Retreats as Catalysts for Growth: Retreats offer a vital opportunity for leaders to pause, reflect, and reconnect with their personal and professional goals, leading to rest, restoration, and personal growth. -Building a Healthy Culture: The foundation of a healthy organizational culture lies in the health and focus of its leaders. Personal development is key to cultivating a supportive and thriving environment. -The Challenge of Drift: Drift represents the gradual departure from one's intended path, often unnoticed until significant consequences arise. Identifying and adhering to your True North is crucial in avoiding drift. -The Role of Self-Awareness: Maintaining direction in life and leadership requires a deep sense of self-awareness and the ability to navigate disruptors to identity and focus. -Invitation to Engage: The episode concludes with an invitation for listeners to continue the conversation and access free resources designed to support leader health and wellness. CHAPTERS: 00:00 Introduction to the significance of retreats for leaders. 01:55 Discussing the impact of personal focus on cultivating a healthy culture. 02:52 Exploring the concept of drift and the importance of True North. 05:13 The journey and direction in life as central to leadership. 06:41 Strategies for recognizing and combating drift. 08:35 Self-awareness and identity as critical factors in leadership. 10:00 The importance of intentionality in preventing drift. 12:53 Wrapping up with a call to action for leaders to engage further and explore available resources. Follow Thrive360: Instagram | YouTube

14 min

02/17/2025

Let's Talk Burnout: Finding Our Way Back to Being Well and Leading Better

In this episode, Mitch McKinney and Mark Montemayor discuss the problem of leader burnout. They identify core issues such as a lack of margin and a misplaced identity. Often, the perpetuation of a lack of margin is driven by a results-oriented mindset and pressure from others' expectations. They emphasize the importance of knowing when enough is enough and finding grounding in personal rhythms and Sabbath rest. The consequences of leader burnout and moral failures have a significant impact on individuals, relationships, and the perception of faith by those outside the church. They encourage leaders to seek help and take time to evaluate their well-being. TAKEAWAYS -Burnout is a significant problem that’s impacting more and more leaders every day. -The pandemic has exacerbated existing issues and revealed the need for healthier leadership practices. -Core issues driving leader unhealth include a lack of margin and a misplaced identity tied to results and others' expectations. -Leaders need to know when enough is enough and prioritize personal rhythms and rest to avoid burnout. -The consequences of unhealthy leaders extends beyond the individual and impact relationships, the church, and the perception of faith. CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction 01:05 The Problem of Leader Health 03:01 Impact of the Pandemic 04:29 Core Issues: Lack of Margin and Misplaced Identity 05:25 Perpetuating Lack of Margin 06:25 Knowing When Enough is Enough 07:53 Consequences and Stakes 09:18 Impact on Others 10:15 Encouragement for Leaders in Need 11:41 Continuing the Conversation Follow Thrive360: Instagram | YouTube

13 min

THRIVE 360 Podcast

Episodes

More Than Success: Choosing Health, Wholeness, and Faith

The Hidden Drift: How Leaders Lose Ground Long Before the Fall

The Drift Toward Burnout: How Leaders Lose Health One Choice at a Time—and How to Course Correct

Breaking the Cycle: Leadership, Grief, and Grace with Fredy Romero

Leading Without Losing: Navigating Marriage & Ministry Together

More Than a Number: Discovering Self and God Through the Enneagram

Presence Over Pressure: Cultivating Peace, Rhythms & Self-Awareness in Leadership

The Blind Spot Breakdown: Growing in Self-Awareness as a Leader

Finding Your True Identity in Leadership and Faith

Beyond the Drift: Discovering Your True North as a Leader

Let's Talk Burnout: Finding Our Way Back to Being Well and Leading Better

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